Thousands reach out for cancer help

THERE continues to be demand for cancer support services from across Victoria, with Cancer Council Victoria’s team of experienced nurses responding to 10,614 enquiries between January 1 and November 30, 2025.

Cancer Council Victoria’s 13 11 20 cancer information and support line is available to anyone affected by cancer.

With one in two Victorians diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, chances are most Victorians have been touched by cancer in one way or another.

However, according to Cancer Council Victoria’s head of strategy and support Danielle Spence, many Victorians may still be unaware of the breadth of help and support available.

“13 11 20 is free, confidential, and available for anyone affected by cancer who has a question or is seeking trusted information, whether it’s those living with a diagnosis or their family, friends, and carers,” Spence said.

“Our cancer nurses can also refer you to our phone-based counsellors, financial counsellors or peer support network to speak with someone who has had a similar cancer experience.

“We know that nearly 11,000 Victorians will call 13 11 20 this year, whether it’s seeking information to help them manage their cancer journey or discussing a broad range of issues and challenges. In fact, so far this year, more than 4,000 people reached out seeking psychological and emotional support.

“But we also know support managing the complexities of cancer means these numbers could be bigger. So often our team will connect with someone who has gone through a cancer experience – whether directly or via a loved one – and they will tell us that they wish they had known about our support services much earlier.”

Ms Spence urged Victorians to continue to use 13 11 20 and spread the word about the support freely available.

“This year’s numbers are again showing us that Victorians affected by cancer are facing many challenges and this continues to include dealing with cost-of-living pressures. At a time when health is compromised, dealing with financial strain can be overwhelming, especially those who are unable to work due to the side effects of treatment,” she said.

“Some people are even telling us that, for the first time, they are having to tap into their life savings or access welfare to just to make ends meet.”

She said the festive period could also be an isolating time for those affected by cancer.

“Feelings of sadness and loneliness can be stronger at this time, as we start anticipating family get-togethers some individuals may worry their emotions could dampen the occasion for others.

“Please contact our experienced cancer nurses who can help you navigate to the support you need. Nobody should have to go through a cancer experience alone or with the fear of not being able to makes ends meet – and that’s what makes a service like 13 11 20 so important.”